Colossians 3:23

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”  (New International Version)

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

I went to the grocery store to prepare for my busy day at work (I am a chef).  This particular day my work load was heavy so I was not necessarily looking forward to it with enthusiasm.  As I proceeded through the check out, the young gentleman who bagged my groceries asked if I would care for ice to keep the fish and meat I had purchased cold.  I said that would be great as long as it was not too much of a hassle. He replied, “Not at all.” So I followed him over to the cooler, thanked him for his kindness and he looked over at me cheerfully and said, “You’re welcome! This is what I do!”

In that moment Colossians 3:23 came to heart.  He went above and beyond his call of duty that day. As a chef, the majority of my days are spent at the grocery store or market place. In more than six years, this was the first time I recall being asked if I would like ice.  How delightful and inspiring it was to see this man take pride in his work.  No matter what you do or who you work for I encourage you to work cheerfully with all your heart as unto the Lord.

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!

-Ana

About Ana Martinez

Ana Martinez was born in Michigan. When she was age 4, her parents Pastor Juan and Deborah Martinez founded the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship in Almont, Mich.  Ana grew up in the church and in a humble, loving Christian home.  Her parent’s faithfulness and commitment to ministry for over 27 years has been a testimony to her.  In her youth she was like the prodigal son.  She knows what it means to walk away from your call and to stray from the Word of God.  Her life experiences have taught her that God’s way and His principles are worth upholding.  She is a God-fearing Christian woman determined to do the will of The Lord.  Her heart’s desire is to reach the lost and win souls for the kingdom of heaven by sharing the Good News, according to Matthew 28:19. Ana truly believes people are hurting and need to know that there is forgiveness through Jesus Christ.  Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give ye rest.”

Ana has served on the Missionary Field, and has served in and led praise and worship, web design, children’s ministry and youth ministry.  Ana’s most recent initiative is Georgia Peach Ministry, a non-profit she founded that serves widows and orphans.  Ana is also on the board of the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship. Ana is a private chef and has worked with professional athletes over the past five years. She is also an entrepreneur and is part owner in an interior design business, a chef placement business, and is entering into the food product industry.